Elizabeth A. Becker, Ph.D.

Dr. Becker is a behavioral neuroendocrinologist studying the neural and hormonal mechanisms of social behavior. Of particular interest, is how parental care impacts development of offspring brain and behavior. In addition, she is interested in aggression and territoriality. Her integrative research program combines techniques and theories from behavioral neuroscience, behavioral ecology and experimental psychology.

The Becker lab works with the monogamous and territorial California mouse (Peromyscus californicus), which is a model system for exploration of parental investment on offspring development. Both males and females of this species provide high levels of care that are necessary for offspring survival.

Dr. Becker received a B.A. in psychology and a B.M. in voice performance from Lawrence University. She received her Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison working with Dr. Catherine Marler. Dr. Becker has lectured at Lawrence University and at the University of Wisconsin-Madison prior to joining the faculty at Saint Joseph University in 2012.